If your current passport is nearing its expiration date, you will need to renew. If you have never renewed your passport, or are unsure as to how to renew a passport, then there are several things that you should know before you do.

It's important to monitor when your passport will expire so you can renew with sufficient time before you need to travel internationally. Renewing your passport is somewhat easier than applying for your first one, but it can still be a lengthy process.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_831.html

Passport renewal processes can vary based on the age of the passport holder, the current residence of the citizen and the timeline needed for renewal. No matter what your situation, you will need to know the correct documents, forms and procedures for correctly submitting your passport for renewal with the United States State Department.

The State Department maintains a list of current resources for passport renewal including downloadable forms, lists of passport renewal locations and general passport resources and information.http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ It is best to always review the passport section of the State Department website to ensure you are aware of any changes or modifications in the passport renewal process.

Most passport holders can renew their passports by mail as long as they meet certain requirements. You can avoid the long lines at your local passport agency if you meet the following criteria:

1. Your current passport is undamaged
2. You received it within the last 15 years.
3. You were at least 16 years old when it was issued.
4. You still have the same name as is on your old passport (or can legally document your name change).http://travel.state.gov/passport/renew/renew_833.html

If you have all the criteria then you can proceed to the next step and you will be holding your new passport without having to stand in lines or deal with crowds.

If you have not met the criteria or if your passport has been damaged, then you will have to move on to the Renew in Person section which will assist as you prepare the documents and paperwork. Each section will have the details that you need so that it will make the entire process more simple.

The first step is to determine where you need to go to renew the passport. There is a link to the Passport Acceptance Facility Search page in the section below and this will allow you to locate a convenient location.

If You Will Renew By Mail

Renewing your passport by mail is certainly the easier way to go.

1. To renew by mail, download the application, fill it out, and be sure to sign and date it.http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/forms_847.html
2. Note that renewal passports may only be sent to addresses within the United States or Canada.
3. Enclose two identical passport size photos.
4. Enclose the appropriate fee.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/renew/renew_833.html
5. If your name has changed since your last passport, include a certified copy of the legal document specifying your name change: marriage license, divorce decree, adoption decree, or court order. Name changes by any other means necessitate an application for renewal in person.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/renew/renew_833.html
6. If you need rush service, you may request expedited service (for a fee). See the State Department's instructions for expedited service, or for emergency travel.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_831.html
7. Mail your application and supporting documents in a padded envelope to the address listed on your application.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/renew/renew_833.html

If You Must Renew in Person

• If your passport is damaged or has been lost you must apply for your renewal in person.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html

1. Determine the closest place to apply for a passport.http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
2. Bring two identical passport size photos with you.
3. You will need to present proof of U.S. citizenship with one of the following:
   • • Previous U.S. passport (undamaged)
     • Original birth certificate (with raised seal)
     • Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
     • Naturalization Certificate
     • Certificate of Citizenship
4. You will also need to prove your identity with one of the following, as long as you are recognizable:
   • • Previous U.S. Passport
     • Naturalization Certificate
     • Current and valid U.S. Driver's License
     • Current and valid Government I.D.
     • Current and valid military I.D.
5. If you do not have any of the above, you will need either a combination of signature documents (social security card, credit cards, etc.) or a person who has known you for at least two years to vouch for your identity. This person must be a U.S. citizen with proof of ID.
6. You will need to provide your social security number.
7. You will need to pay the appropriate fee.http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html

• If you're out of room in your current passport, but it has not yet expired, you may simply request extra pages. There is no need to travel to an application site or fill out any additional paperwork. You can simply contact the State Department for additional pages. Read on to see what steps need to be followed for this simple request.

1. You may request extra pages for your passport if:
   • • You have fewer than 2-4 blank pages left in your visa/stamp pages.
     • You travel extensively and will need a new passport.
2. Apply for extra pages through the State Department.http://travel.state.gov/passport/fri/add/add_850.html
3. There is no fee for this service.http://travel.state.gov/passport/fri/add/add_850.html

Using this page as a resource for getting new pages will speed along your request and allow you to be traveling again in no time. With plenty of room to see all those locations that you are wanting to visit.

If you have more questions after reading this instructional page then you can contact the State Department and they will assist you in a more personalized manner. There is an online link to the state Department that will answer even more of your questions. There are many post offices, court clerks and libraries that will be your point of contact for the additional pages and other forms that will be needed for your passport.